20 March 2026
There is a special kind of warmth that fills the room whenever Peggy Michell enters, a brightness that has only grown richer over her remarkable 100 years.
Earlier this year, our Nanango residents and staff in our Karinya residential care home, came together to celebrate Peggy’s centenary, honouring a life defined by adventure and resilience.
Peggy’s story spans continents. Born in the United Kingdom, her life journey took her to Rhodesia and Zimbabwe before she eventually called Australia home.
Reflecting on her youth in England, she remembers Sundays spent by the River Thames, where her father would hire a punt for her family to enjoy the water. A natural at sports and a teacher at heart, she recalls the days she spent lawn bowling, playing tennis, and even teaching her mother and younger brother how to ride a bicycle.
That same spirited energy followed her into her professional life. During the war, when her school was converted into a hospital, Peggy stepped into the workforce at the local post office.
She later found her niche in accounting for a jam production company, where she took pride in the precision of payroll and the routine of clock-in cards.
Since joining our Nanango family in July 2024, Peggy has become a cherished presence among us. When asked what she is most known for, she joked, “My grumbling!” before correcting herself with a laugh, “My sense of humour, probably.”
As Peggy sat with her congratulatory letter from King Charles and Queen Camilla, she offered a simple, timeless piece of advice for the generations following in her footsteps: “Always be honest.”
Peggy’s presence at Karinya is a gentle reminder of the beauty of ageing and the joy of sharing stories. We are fortunate to learn from her grace, her spirit and her infectious laughter.
